Saplings given as prasad during Green Nagar Kirtan in Phagwara

The 556th Parkash Purb of Sri Guru Nanak Dev was marked with a grand Green Nagar Kirtan that began from the sacred Wain Nirmal Kutiya and concluded at Gurdwara Gurparkash Sahib. A large number of devotees joined the procession, reciting Gurbani and participating in various religious activities.

In a unique environment-focused initiative, two tractor-trolleys of saplings were distributed as ‘prasad’ during the procession. The Nagar Kirtan passed through key historical locations, including Gurdwara Guru Ka Bagh, Gurdwara Babe Nanaki Da Ghar, Gurdwara Sri Ber Sahib, Ghanta Ghar Chowk, and Talwandi Choudhria bridge before returning to the Wain banks.

Addressing the sangat, Rajya Sabha member Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal said Guru Nanak had given the world the message of protecting air, water, and soil centuries ago — a teaching that offers solutions to today’s global warming crisis. Throughout the procession, Seechewal explained the importance of plantation and environmental conservation.

Nihang groups honoured Seechewal, while gatka teams performed martial art during the procession. Students of local schools carried placards and delivered messages on saving environment. In the evening, devotees lit lamps on the banks of the holy Wain, and a devotional Kirtan Darbar was organised. Large crowds also paid obeisance at Gurdwara Ber Sahib.

Poetry Darbar dedicated to the Guru

As part of the celebrations, a Kavi Darbar was organised at Gurdwara Gurparkash Sahib, where poets recited works inspired by the life and philosophy of Guru Nanak Dev. Among those who participated were Kulwinder Kaur Kanwal, Gurdev Singh Fauji, Dr Harmeet Kaur Meet, Dr Asa Singh, Sant Singh Sandhu, and several others.

Seechewal honoured the poets, noting that poets play a vital role in society by responding to the challenges of their time through literature.

Visual tribute to Gurdwara Ber Sahib unveiled

To mark the 556th Prakash Purab of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, a significant religious heritage pictorial tribute depicting historic Gurdwara Ber Sahib was unveiled at the revered site in Sultanpur Lodhi, where Guru Nanak Dev meditated for nearly 14 years and attained enlightenment.

The documentary and accompanying booklet, conceptualised by Harpreet Sandhu, State Information Commissioner, Punjab, honour the spiritual legacy of the first Sikh Guru. The presentation highlights key features of the Gurdwara, including the Palanquin (Palki Sahib), Bhora Sahib, Nishan Sahib, Chaur Sahib, Sukhasan Asthan, domes and the sacred Sarovar, bringing alive Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s message of peace, equality, compassion and unity.

The release of the pictorial work and sacred patkas was performed on the auspicious occasion by Harpreet Sandhu alongside the Gurdwara management. The initiative aims to foster a deeper spiritual connection among devotees, inspire future generations and promote the historical and cultural heritage of Sultanpur Lodhi.

Harpreet Sandhu’s tribute serves as a homage to the 556th Prakash Purb, encouraging humanity to follow the Guru’s teachings of humility, universal brotherhood and oneness with nature.